How to Write 自
The character 自 (zì) is written with 6 strokes. Follow the standard Chinese stroke order: top to bottom, left to right, outside before inside. The radical 自 is one of its key components.
Practice the correct stroke order with the Hanzi Writer app to see animated stroke-by-stroke guidance with real-time feedback.
Meaning & Pronunciation
自 is pronounced zì in Mandarin Chinese. It means self; from.
As an HSK Level 2 character, 自 is among the first characters beginners learn.
Common Words with 自
自己
zì jǐ
oneself; self
自动
zì dòng
automatic; voluntary
自由
zì yóu
freedom; liberty; free
Example Sentences
我自己去学校。
wǒ zì jǐ qù xué xiào
I go to school by myself.
这是一个自动门。
zhè shì yí gè zì dòng mén
This is an automatic door.
鸟儿在天空自由飞。
niǎo ér zài tiān kōng zì yóu fēi
The bird flies freely in the sky.
Practice Writing 自 (zì)
Open Hanzi Writer to see the animated stroke order and practice writing 自 with real-time feedback.